We can live in a more natural and environmentally friendly way and significantly improve our quality of life. By thinking carefully about the way we use our resources - food, energy, shelter and other material and non-material needs - it is possible to get much more out of life by using less. We can be more productive for less effort, reaping benefits for our environment and ourselves, for now and for generations to come.
This is the essence of Permaculture - the design of an ecologically sound way of living - in our households, gardens, communities and businesses.
It is created by cooperating with Nature and caring for the Earth and its people. Permaculture is not exclusive - its principles and practice can be used by anyone, anywhere:
- City flats, yards and window boxes
- Suburban and country houses/garden
- Allotments and smallholdings
- Community spaces
- Farms and estates
- Countryside and conservation areas
- Commercial and industrial premises
- Educational establishments
- Waste ground
[ Forest Garden ]
[ New Hedges for Wildlife, Shelter and Food ]
Writer, Emma Chapman, defines it as:
"Permaculture, originally 'Permanent Agriculture', is often viewed as a set of gardening techniques, but it has in fact developed into a whole design philosophy, and for some people a philosophy for life. Its central theme is the creation of human systems which provide for human needs, but using many natural elements and drawing inspiration from natural ecosystems. Its goals and priorities coincide with what many people see as the core requirements for sustainability."Permaculture tackles how to grow food, build houses and create communities, and minimise environmental impact at the same time. Its principles are being constantly developed and refined by people throughout the world in very different climates and cultural circumstances.
Permaculture is about taking responsibility and control over much of our needs and wants, being part of a global solution rather than part of the problem.
